Cells of the endocervix are responsible for the secretion of mucins, which provide an additional layer of protection to the female reproductive tract (FRT). This barrier is likely fortified with IgA as has previously been shown in the gastrointestinal tract and lungs of mice. Mucus associated IgA can facilitate clearance of bacteria. While a similar function for IgG has been proposed, an associ...

Knowledge regarding the role of the cervix in fertility has expanded considerably over the past 20 years and in this article, we propose that it is now time for its function to be reappraised. First, we review the anatomy of the cervix and the vaginal ecosystem that it inhabits. Then, we examine the physiology and the role of the cervical mucus. The ongoing mystery of the exact mechanism of the...

Exudate from Bartholin's ducts from 30 selected patients was investigated for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. N. gonorrhoeae was isolated from the duct exudate in 24 patients and C. trachomatis in nine. Concurrent infection of the ducts was present in seven (29.2%); the remaining two patients were sexual contacts of men with non-specific urethritis. The duct exudate was mucopus...